Dayton's Global Opportunity: NATO Parliamentary Assembly Brings Foreign Direct Investment Potential to Montgomery County

Dayton, Ohio, is hosting the five-day Spring 2025 NATO Parliamentary Assembly from May 22 - 26. By holding this NATO conference in Dayton, it marks the 20th anniversary of the Dayton Accords. The Dayton Accords were a peace agreement between the presidents of Bosnia, Croatia, and Serbia, enid the war in Bosnia and outlining a General Framework Agreement for peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

This prestigious event, held for the first time in the United States, will bring approximately 300 parliamentarians from 32 NATO member nations, along with their staff, families, and key business leaders, to the heart of Montgomery County. While the assembly's primary focus is on global security and diplomacy, the economic ripple effects of such a gathering could be substantial.

One of the most significant opportunities from this event is the potential for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). Many NATO parliamentarians travel with business delegations looking to expand into global markets. For Dayton and Montgomery County, this is an invaluable chance to showcase the region's assets, from its central location and robust infrastructure to its thriving aerospace, bioscience, logistics, manufacturing, and technology sectors.

Understanding FDI and Its Impact

Foreign Direct Investment occurs when a company or government from one country invests in business operations in another country. These investments include establishing new facilities, acquiring or expanding existing businesses, and forming partnerships. FDI is a crucial driver of economic growth, bringing in capital, creating jobs, and enhancing industry expertise. In the United States alone, foreign firms invested $177 billion in 2022, supporting nearly eight million jobs.

For Montgomery County, attracting FDI means securing long-term economic benefits, increasing global competitiveness, and fostering innovation across multiple industries. The region's business-friendly environment, skilled workforce, and strong partnerships with economic development organizations make it an attractive destination for international investors.

Montgomery County, OH: A Proven Hub for FDI Success

Montgomery County has a track record of successfully attracting FDI, with several international companies thriving there. These success stories demonstrate that Montgomery County is more than capable of attracting and sustaining international business investments. With the NATO Parliamentary Assembly bringing high-level decision-makers to Dayton, the county has a prime opportunity to build on this success.

Notable Examples of FDI in Montgomery County, Ohio

Fuyao Glass America (China)

This auto glass manufacturing giant invested over $1 billion to redevelop a former 1.2 million-square-foot GM plant, which now employs more than 2,000 people in Dayton.

Green Tokai Co. (Japan) 

With nearly 30 years in Brookville, this auto parts manufacturer employs over 600 workers and is constructing its third expansion. 

Electra Form Industries (EFI) (Canada)

Based in Ontario, Canada, EFI is known for its quality, low-cost PET-performing molds. A member of the Wentworth Group of companies, the company has 25 patents and uses innovative technologies to develop flexible and adaptable products. Montgomery County is home to one of EFI's eight mold manufacturing and services centers in the United States, Canada, the UK, Poland, and Singapore.

Adare Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Italy)

Eurand Pharma, founded in Milan in 1969, operates a facility in Dayton, Ohio. It is a leader in developing and manufacturing enhanced pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical products using proprietary drug formulation technologies. More than 40 products globally utilize Adare's innovations.

Behr Dayton Thermal Products (Germany)

With 1,400 full-time employees, this automotive air conditioning and engine cooling systems manufacturer plays a critical role in Dayton's industrial landscape.

Westrafo (Italy)

On August 5, 2024, Westrafo broke ground on its first manufacturing plant in Trotwood, OH, to manufacture medium voltage transformers and energy solutions. Westrafo expects to create 230 full-time jobs, generating more than $12 million in new annual payroll. 

Beontag (Japan)

Beontag opened a new $80 million facility in Trotwood, OH, to manufacture pressure-sensitive adhesives and smart tags using technology such as RFID and NFC. This new facility is quadrupling Beontag’s output capacity in North America.

Maximizing the Economic Potential of the NATO Assembly

Hosting the NATO Parliamentary Assembly presents several ways for Montgomery County to capitalize on economic opportunities:

• Familiarization Tours: Showcasing the region's industrial parks, research facilities, and business-friendly environment can encourage investment interest from visiting delegations.
• Networking Events: Bringing together local business leaders and international representatives can create valuable connections and lay the groundwork for future partnerships.
• Sector-Specific Engagement: Highlighting key industries such as aerospace, automotive, and advanced manufacturing can align Dayton's strengths with the interests of potential investors.
• Government and Business Collaboration: Local and state economic development agencies can work alongside the U.S. Department of Commerce and SelectUSA to provide tailored investment resources to foreign businesses.

A Lasting Impact on Montgomery County

The significance of Dayton hosting the Spring 2025 NATO Parliamentary Assembly extends beyond the immediate economic boost from hospitality and tourism. By leveraging this moment on the global stage, Montgomery County can position itself as a premier destination for international business expansion.

With over $1 billion invested in downtown Dayton since 1995, the region has already demonstrated its ability to evolve and grow. The NATO Assembly provides an unparalleled opportunity to accelerate this progress, ensuring that Dayton remains a global commerce and innovation leader for years to come.

Montgomery County Community and Economic Development

As preparations continue, local businesses, economic development leaders, and policymakers must seize this moment to attract FDI and drive economic prosperity. The world will be watching — let's ensure Dayton shines as a city open for business, investment, and long-term success.

Montgomery County Community and Economic Development understands the vital importance Foreign Direct Investment has in Montgomery County. For help starting, relocating, or expanding your business, explore selectmcohio.com, an information center designed to streamline development in Montgomery County.

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